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Minerva Cardioangiologica 2002 August;50(4):291-300

Copyright © 2002 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA

language: English

A summary of the findings from the Post-CABG trial

Hoogwerf B. J., Hunninghake D. B., Knatterud G., Campeau L.

The Post-CABG trial was designed to assess the effects of 2 different lipid lowering strategies and low dose warfarin vs placebo (2x2 factorial) design on the progression of atherosclerosis in saphenous vein grafts. Atherosclerotic progression was determined by comparing baseline and follow-up angiograms (mean interval: 4.3 years) using quantitative angiography. Significant progression of disease in SVG's was reduced with the aggressive lipid lowering strategy compared to the moderate strategy; significant progression in SVG's was not altered by low dose warfarin. The beneficial effects on angiographic changes were demonstrated in multiple subgroups of participants in the trial. The composite clinical end point of death, MI, stroke, PTCA or repeat CABG was analyzed at the end of the trial and 3 years (extended follow-up) after closure of the angiographic trial. At the time of the extended follow-up the aggressive lipid strategy was associated with reduced clinical events; low dose warfarin was also associated with reduced clinical events.